Running head: Functions of Management

Functions of Management

Management is the utilization of tools, knowledge, people, and any other resource to accomplish a specific organizational objective. This sounds simple at first reading the definition but the complexities to management are vast. Management sets the standards and practices to which the entire organization will follow. They lead teams and companies toward a common goal. When working in management responsibility ceases to be a

Functions of Management narrow paradigm of individualist thinking and begins to be an encompassing ownership of accountability. The organizational goals are accomplished with planning, organizing, leading, and controlling, which are known as the four functions of management (Bateman & Snell, 2009). If conducted properly each of these functions of management provide key inputs to strong organizational management. Planning is arguably the most important aspect of management. Stated simply, to plan management specifies the goals of the organization and how they are to be accomplished (McNamara, 2010). A strong plan helps alleviate future problems and strengthen resolve. A weak plan will result in extra costs and time because of unforeseen problems and issues. Strong organizational plans include prioritization of any risks, funding, and the organizations goal (Project Management Institute, 2008). The plan should include any risk mitigation processes as well as the controlling and changing

process. The plan must start with an understanding of the end product and the process and procedures it takes to get to that end objective in the most efficient and safe manner possible. A proper product scope and deliverable definition is necessary in order to create any successful plan. The plan sets the standard and pace each of the next three functions must follow. Without a proper plan organizing and leading is invariably impossible. Managers organize to ensure work is done according to the organizational structure and goals. Managers ensure that employees, information, goals, and working efficiencies are following the proper steps to maintain the most efficient and safe utilization of all resources. This includes reporting structures, setting of job responsibilities, and proper workflow are understood and followed (McNamara, 2010). All of the organization of information, data, and other resources is set in accordance with the organizational structure.

Functions of Management Whether it is a functional, divisional, matrix, or network organization the manager is responsible to organize these flows to maximize efficiencies in production without compromise to safety or ethics. Strong organizational skills are a requirement for a successful manager. Successful managers have certain characteristics that make them strong leaders. Leaders are a special type of person that helps others stay focused and motivated. Leaders

continually communicate with team members to ensure a proper goal alignment and inspire them to achieve greater success (Bateman & Snell, 2009). A good plan and strong organizational structure is limited by the leadership abilities of its managers. To be effective a leader must organize the organizations goals with the resources in a manner that is efficient and realistic (McNamara, 2010). Without realistic expectations of direct reports a leader cannot be successful. A strong leader sees ways of motivating individuals and groups; understanding that not every person responds to the same type of motivation. Leaders assist managers in proper scheduling of work activities, delegations, goal setting and evaluations, as well as many other tasks. Properly guiding and directing others properly assists a manager in progress and goal evaluations. The function of controlling begins with setting goals and standards not only for the organization but for each individual as well. Evaluating goals, work progress, employees, processes, and procedures are all a part of controlling. Controlling is performed when the processes and procedures are evaluated before, during, and after reaching organizational goals (Bateman & Snell, 2009). Maintaining sight of goals and realizing better efficiencies in reaching those goals are all important factors. Controls are done by maintaining a process and procedures for scope of work definitions, changes in the scope of work, any

Functions of Management

financial changes, and even monitoring of work progress. Employee evaluations and goals settings are essential to maintain ones career objectives and goals are set and maintained. Without proper monitoring and controlling processes and procedures in place a business has a strong likely of running amuck and failing. As seen the four management functions of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling cannot be completed properly without educated and experienced managers. An appropriate plan in the beginning stages is essential to the successful completion of accurately defined goals and limitations. A good plan that it is organized efficiently and lead to completion competently by strong managerial leaders will result in higher standards and profits. Controlling and adjusting goals and plans will result in increased efficiencies while maintaining a stable work environment for employees.

Reference Bateman, T., Snell, S. (2009). Management: Leading & Collaborating in a Competitive World, Eight Edition. McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. McNamara, C. (2010). Skills and Competencies in Organizational Management. Retrieved March 9, 2012 from http://managementhelp.org/mng_thry/. Project Management Institute. (2008). A Guide to the Project Management Body of

Functions of Management Knowledge (PMBOK) Fourth Edition.